Fiume year 1921 stamp 1.00 MLH – moved overprint

Fiume year 1921 stamp 1.00 MLH – moved overprint

The stamps issued in Fiume (now Rijeka, Croatia) between 1919 and 1924 reflect the turbulent history of the region during this period. Fiume experienced a series of political changes and was controlled by different governments, each issuing its own stamps. Here’s an overview of the key philatelic issues and historical context for Fiume from 1919 to 1924:

Historical Context

1. Post-World War I Period (1919):
   • D’Annunzio’s Occupation: In September 1919, the Italian poet and nationalist Gabriele D’Annunzio seized control of Fiume and declared it the Italian Regency of Carnaro.
   • Treaty of Rapallo (1920): The Treaty of Rapallo between Italy and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia) recognized Fiume as an independent Free State.
2. Free State of Fiume (1920-1924):
   • Independent Administration: From 1920 until its annexation by Italy in 1924, Fiume was an independent free state with its own government and postal system.
3. Annexation by Italy (1924):
   • Italian Sovereignty: In 1924, the Treaty of Rome formalized Fiume’s annexation to Italy, ending its brief period as a free state.

Philatelic Issues

1. D’Annunzio’s Occupation (1919-1920)

• Overprinted Stamps: During D’Annunzio’s occupation, existing Austrian stamps were overprinted with “Fiume” and new values. These stamps are highly sought after due to their historical significance.
  • Designs: The overprints were typically simple, with “Fiume” in various fonts and styles.

2. Free State of Fiume (1920-1924)

• First Issues (1920): Following the establishment of the Free State, Fiume issued its own stamps featuring local themes and symbols.
  • Designs: Early issues depicted the coat of arms of Fiume, local landmarks, and allegorical figures.
  • Denominations: Stamps were issued in various denominations to meet different postal rates.
• Definitive Series: A definitive series featuring more elaborate designs, including portraits of historical figures and symbols of Fiume’s autonomy, was released.
  • Symbolic Imagery: These stamps often included symbolic imagery representing freedom, such as the allegorical figure of “Libertas.”
• Overprints and Surcharges: During periods of inflation and changing postal rates, existing stamps were frequently overprinted or surcharged with new values.
  • Provisional Issues: These overprints were sometimes locally produced and varied in style and execution.

3. Annexation by Italy (1924)

• Italian Overprints: After the annexation, Italian stamps were used in Fiume, often with overprints indicating the change in administration.
  • Transition Period: During the transition, some Fiume stamps were overprinted with “Regno d’Italia” or similar inscriptions to denote Italian sovereignty.